Car Wobbling Around Turns? How to Troubleshoot the Problem

If you are driving and notice the car is wobbling, there could be many reasons to blame. After you have done a process of elimination, it may be time to talk with a professional, like Collins Service Center, if the problem is not quickly found.

Off Balance?

One of the most common reasons a car will wobble or shake when going around a turn is the tires are out of balance. In many cars, the shake/shimmy will begin at higher speeds on the highway.

Check the tire's air pressure and make sure there is not any air leaking; you may have a flat or be getting ready to have one. If the pressure was checked and adjusted or the tire replaced, the car should drive better. If not, you will have to go a bit deeper for the problem.

Put the Brakes On

Brake rotors may be the reason. It is likely that what has happened is the rotor has become out of round, meaning the tread of the tire does not circle the axis evenly. The vibration will be felt in the steering wheel and throughout the brake pedal. Brake calipers may also stick, causing the wheel to shimmy. The faster you go, the worse it will get, and you may also smell a burning odor once the vehicle stops.

Maybe It's the Wheels

A wheel bearing may be the culprit because just like any other roller bearing, they must be kept oiled. In most cases, you can pay attention which way the car is wobbling from (left or right) by looking in the side mirror images. The mechanic will want to know this information if you hire one at a later time.

In older cars (20+ years), inner and outer wheel bearings were used and did not last long but were easily maintained. Most newer cars have sealed bearings that will last longer but are mounted with mechanical force. The vibration you feel when the car wobbles around turns is where the rolling elements are starting to fail.

Suspension component issues cannot make the car shake because they do not rotate. Unfortunately, they can allow the wheels to wobble. When the front of a rear-drive car encounters a lot of resistance, it can wear-down and cause the car to become out of alignment. After a failed alignment, the wobble will be soon to follow if the component is not repaired.

Many of these issues can be avoided with a maintenance plan offered by the vehicle you have purchased. If you are unsure of which part to purchase, you can to a parts store for assistance or go to a qualified mechanic. None of these issues should be ignored. The safety of all passengers is in your capable hands.